Wish You Were on Vacation? Eat Here!
Three Dots & A Dash
Why does it always seem like everyone except you is on a beautiful, lavish vacation abroad? Well, we may not be able to help with the actual traveling part… but here is a list of Chicago bars and restaurants that will give you all the feels of being on vacation without spending a fortune or taking off a month of work!
Three Dots & A Dash {435 North Clark Street, Chicago; 312.610.4220}
For when you wish you were in Tahiti…..
Nothing says beach vacation quite like a bright, fruity cocktail and no one does those quite like Three Dots & A Dash. You’ll feel like you’re lounging on a beach thanks to the funky, tiki-inspired decor and atmosphere of this speakeasy. Descend the stairs and enter a tropical paradise!
Summer House Santa Monica {1954 North Halsted Street, Chicago; 773.634.4100}
For when you wish you were in California…
With its ocean neighbor, the cuisine in California usually focuses on fresh, locally sourced & simply prepared food, and Summer House follows that trend. Their extensive menu covers a little bit of everything; fresh salads, market inspired salads, coastal soups and (most importantly) pizzas made daily using California-milled flour.
via Tabu
Tabu {401 North Morgan Street, Chicago; 773.453.8228}
For when you wish you were in Mexico…
Prepare yourself to be transported straight to Mexico City when you enter Tabu. The vibrant dishes & drinks pair perfectly with the bright, playful interior. They are also rumored to have the most extensive list of mezcals & tequilas in all of Chicago, so if that doesn’t make you want to stay for a few more rounds, we don’t know what will! Salud!
Irazu {1865 North Milwaukee Avenue, Chicago; 773.252.5687}
For when you wish you were in Costa Rica…
Get ready for a true “pura vida” experience when you dine at Irazu. It has all the relaxed flair of a traditional Costa Rican restaurant and serves up traditional dishes like Pepitos, Empanadas and even the national dish of Costa Rica, Casado. The most fun part? They offer fun BYOB Mixers like Piña Colada and Mango Daiquiri Pitchers so you can create your own tropical cocktails!
Tanta {118 West Grand Avenue, Chicago; 312.222.9700}
For when you wish you were in Peru…
Skip the trek to South America and head to Tanta instead! It has some of the best Peruvian food on this side of the equator, including local favorites like Ceviche and Pisco Sours, plus so much more. And if you want a more beachy Peruvian vibe, just head upstairs to their bright and vibrant rooftop!
Pizzeria Portofino {317 North Clark Street, Chicago; 312.900.9018}
For when you wish you were in Italy…
Italy has seemed like THE place to be this past year, so for all of you that couldn't make it, just head to Pizzeria Portofino instead! Dine on hand-stretched pizzas and sip on coastal wines all with the Chicago Riverfront as your backdrop…it’s the next best thing to the Italian Riviera! (We swear!)
Nisos Mediterranean
Nisos {802 West Randolph Street, Chicago; 312.584.0288}
For when you wish you were in Greece…
Welcome to the Mediterranean of the Midwest! At Nisos, the menu focuses on all elements of nature, using fresh seasonal cooking and locally sourced ingredients straight from Greece. The airy, tranquil design, combined with the authentic cuisine will give you all the calming vibes of the Greek Islands without any of the jet lag.
Le Bouchon {1958 North Damen Avenue, Chicago; 773.862.6600}
For when you wish you were in Paris…
Le Bouchon’s authentic, cozy, Parisian atmosphere will truly make you forget you’re still in Chicago. They offer traditional French bistro cuisine – from Oysters and Escargot to Puff Pastry Trout and Steak Frites – as well as an extensive wine list to accompany. Oui, Oui!
Jaleo + Pigtail {500 North Clark Street #465, Chicago; 312.820.7771}
For when you wish you were in Spain…
A deliciously authentic Spanish restaurant and cocktail bar all under the same roof? Yes, please! Renowned Chef José Andres drew his menu inspiration from his Spanish roots and offers locally sourced Spanish dishes as well as “tapas style” shareables. After eating, head downstairs to Pigtail, a creative spin off of “pig + cocktails” where guests can enjoy just that; elevated jamón and Spanish cocktails!
By Robyn Glaza | Social Coordinator